Spacecraft Solar Technician

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

Apex is seeking a Solar Technician to support the assembly, integration, and testing of solar array systems for our spacecraft platforms. In this hands-on role, you will work closely with engineering and production teams to build high-quality, flight-ready hardware while supporting Apex's mission to manufacture spacecraft at scale. This role is ideal for someone with a strong background in manufacturing in the aerospace, automotive, or solar industries, possesses high attention to detail, and has experience working with precision hardware. You'll be directly involved in building critical spacecraft components, troubleshooting production challenges, and continuously improving manufacturing processes as we scale production.

Perform assembly, integration, and testing of spacecraft solar array systems and associated hardware. Assemble precision mechanical components using engineering drawings, work instructions, and established manufacturing procedures. Install and integrate solar panels, deployment mechanisms, hinges, brackets, fasteners, and associated components. Operate and maintain automated manufacturing equipment. Use hand tools, power tools, measurement equipment, and specialized fixtures to complete hardware builds. Inspect completed assemblies to ensure compliance with engineering specifications, quality standards, and workmanship requirements. Identify, document, and troubleshoot assembly issues, nonconformances, and manufacturing challenges. Collaborate with manufacturing engineers, quality inspectors, and other technicians to resolve production issues. Support functional testing, deployment testing, and verification activities for solar array assemblies. Maintain accurate build records, traceability documentation, and production data. Follow established safety and quality control procedures. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, efficiency, and repeatability.

3+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, manufacturing, integration, or production environments. Experience assembling precision mechanical or electromechanical hardware. Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, assembly instructions, and technical documentation. Proficiency with hand tools, torque tools, measurement equipment, and precision assembly techniques. Familiarity with mechanical fastening, bonding, and hardware installation processes. Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety, quality, and workmanship standards. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment.

Experience in aerospace, spacecraft, defense, automotive, or solar manufacturing Hands-on experience assembling or integrating spacecraft solar arrays, terrestrial solar panels, deployable structures, or mechanical mechanisms. Experience operating and performing autonomous maintenance on automated manufacturing equipment. Familiarity with solar panel handling, deployment mechanisms, and sensitive flight hardware. Experience with adhesives, bonding,